. >>> now we turn to the worsening situation in syria. a u.s. official confirms within the last day, the assad regime has launched lots of scud missiles at rebel areas in the territory. russian president putin, a top assad ally, acknowledged, this is important, that it is time for change in syria. >>> back here at home, it is one week since tragedy struck newtown, connecticut. a moment of silence will be observed beginning at 9:30 eastern time to remember those who died. then bells will ring 26 times to mark the lives of 20 children and 6 adults who were killed. president obama will also mark the moment at the white house. >>> in related news, the national rifle association's long awaited announcement following the connecticut tragedy is set for later this morning. the group promises what it called meaningful contributions to make sure what happened in newtown does not happen again. the nra has returned to social media, cautiously posting on twitter and reinstating its account on facebook. i think what you may see at this news conference today,